Archbishop expresses gratitude for help and prayers

[ACNS Source: Diocese of New Westminster] Archbishop David Crawley has expressed gratitude for help and prayers for the people in his diocese who have been affected by forest fires during the last few weeks.

The archbishop himself and his wife, Joan Bubbs, and their daughter were evacuated the weekend of 23-24 August but were allowed back to their home 26 August, according to the Anglican Journal.

Also temporarily told to leave his home was the Revd Michael Karabelas, rector of St Andrew, in Kelowna's Mission district. The church itself has been in an evacuation area.

In a message sent to many diocesan bishops, Archbishop Crawley said he had received many messages of support. "We very much appreciate their kindness."

"We are immensely grateful for the help that has come in from other parts of B.C. and the rest of Canada. Please continue to pray for us," he said.

The Primate's World Relief and Development Fund has advanced an initial grant of $3,000 to the Diocese for its Fire Assistance Fund. PWRDF will also forward to the diocese any funds received above and beyond this initial amount.

Archbishop Crawley said that the funds will be used to assist families that do not have insurance and those who find themselves stretched thin, particularly as they try to provide their children with all the things they need for going back to school. Funds that might be left over at the end of the emergency will be forwarded to the Red Cross for its fire related emergency program.

To make a donation through PWRDF, cheques clearly marked "BC Fire Assistance Fund" may be sent to PWRDF, 600 Jarvis St., Toronto ON M4Y 2J6. Credit car donations may be made by phoning Barb Wilkins at (416) 924-9199 ext. 320. (Please do not send your card number by email or fax.)